How US Enrolment Cap Will Impact Indian Students? GTRI Warns of Talent Flow to US

US Enrolment Cap on Indian Students

The Trump administration has sent a proposal to 9 universities in USA stating to limit the number of international students coming to USA. If accepted, then the universities will receive federal funding, research grants, or other benefits. The limit has been set to 15% international students in the total population of the American university. Moreover, only 5% international students can be enrolled from one country. The 9 universities that were sent the memo to reduce international students in USA include:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

• University of Pennsylvania

• University of Arizona

• Brown University

• Dartmouth College

• University of Southern California

• University of Texas

• University of Virginia

• Vanderbilt University

Why has GTRI Warned Indian Students about a 15% Cap in USA?

Due to the increase in the H1B visa fee, there was increased uncertainty among Indian students. However, this was resolved as the US administration announced a few exemptions to the H1B $100,000 fees. On the current situation in the USA, the GTRI has warned Indian students that even though there might be a few relaxations but it will be challenging for the new students in USA. They stated that the new cap in USA on international students will decrease the number of skilled workers coming to USA from India. This could further have an impact on industries like technology, engineering, and healthcare that depend heavily on Indian graduates. GTRI also warned Indian students that US administration has relaxed the rules for those in USA but made it equally challenging for international students aiming to study in USA.

How Will the US 15% Cap on International Students Impact Indian Students?

The new enrolment cap in the USA has caused uncertainty for Indian students. Indian students will be majorly affected by these new rules in USA for international students, as they are one of the largest international student communities. The following are some impacts on Indian students due to the 15% cap.

• Increased Competition: The 5% limit on admissions from each country means that even the most qualified Indian applicants might not get a spot in USA due to the limited number of seats and increased competition.

• Higher Costs: Many Indian students will reconsider their decisions about investing in the high cost of studying and living in USA. This is because there is uncertainty of getting an admission and then later finding a job. It is also anticipated that for the academic year 2025 - 2026, the costs of studying in USA will increase.

• Limited Seats: With the cap on international students of 15% of the total population and an additional 5% of enrollment from one country, the number of available seats in each university will decrease drastically. Hence, the competition will increase for a limited number of seats for Indian students.

Also Read,